Apprenticeships

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An apprenticeship is a number of separate qualifications and courses known as a framework and combines practical and theoretical skills. They are designed to help you to develop skills and attributes which will benefit both you and the organisations you work for. Apprentices are employees so they earn while they learn.

What level of apprenticeship should I do?

Apprenticeships can be studied at three different levels: Intermediate, Advanced and Higher. Usually, an apprenticeship takes between one and four years to complete, depending on the level and framework. As a guide, an intermediate apprenticeship usually takes a minimum of 12 months.

Intermediate: This is equivalent to 5 GCSE passes. Apprentices work towards work-based learning qualifications such as NVQ Level 2, Key Skills and, in most cases, a relevant knowledge-based qualification such as a BTEC.

Advanced: This is equivalent to 2 A-level passes. Apprentices work towards qualifications such as NVQ Level 3, Key Skills and a knowledge-based qualification such as a BTEC. To start this programme, you should ideally have 5 GCSEs at grade A*-C, or have already completed an Intermediate Apprenticeship.

Higher: This level covers NVQ Level 4 and above (from Foundation Degree up to Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree). The apprentice & employer usually work alongside a training provider & university to undertake these higher levels of qualification within the workplace.

What will I earn?

As a starting point, there is a minimum wage of £3.40 per hour for apprentices in their first year of employment, but many employers pay more. For example, the City of York Council pay £5.55 per hour. Employers then must pay the National Minimum Wage for their age if they are in their second year of employment and are aged 19+.

Where can an apprenticeship lead?

Apprenticeships can lead to progression and promotion in employment or to further study. It is possible to progress through the apprenticeship levels to enter higher education. If you want to go on to university you will find that many higher education institutions will value your apprenticeship qualification and will offer you a place on a foundation degree or other higher level qualifications.

More detailed information is available from the Get In Go Far website, or alternatively call 08000 150 600.

Apprenticeship Graduation

Every year, people who have successfully completed their apprenticeship are invited to a graduation celebration evening, to recognise the hard work they have put in and present awards to the very best of them.